Quick and Easy Crafts have brought out a series of wonderful step-by-step projects, which are simple to make and the results are stunning. The books are aimed at new crafters looking for clear, practical advice on popular craft subjects, as well as skilled crafters looking for new ideas. A crafts expert has written each book in the series with a passion for his/her particular subject. These books would be suitable for community projects.

One of these exciting craft books is Decorative Painting by Stephanie Weightman. The book contains 15 step-by-step projects, all with clear instructions and beautifully clear colour photographs. Projects are made using different important paint techniques, and most projects give theme variations, hints and tips.

Each project has an index showing the level of expertise needed to make the product, and in the front of the book there are detailed instructions on the Tools, Materials, Techniques and Preparation used for these projects.

Decorative Painting gives innovative ideas on how to liven up cachepots, vases, room dividers, trays, cupboards, coat hook racks, trays, lamp bases and shades, kitchen shelves and storage boxes. The ideas shown can be used to add colour to the home, garden, school or office, and once again the variations suggested are only but a few of the wonderful uses.

One of the easy beginner’s projects was the Kitchen Utensil Holder. A simple fern is painted onto the sides of the holder and by varying the different shades of green these ferns are the perfect embellishment for other surfaces as well.

The Neoclassical Wall Cupboard, also a beginner’s project, is a cupboard that can be used anywhere in the house, office or even outside on a patio.

The Farmhouse Pin Board on pg.36 is a colourful way of lightening up any kitchen, playroom or office. It is also a simple, but eye catching item to have in a school room. The rooster design is simple to follow from the given template which can be photocopied to any size required.

A completely different look for a Jewellery Box on pg. 40 includes a delightful bumblebee, making a perfect gift for someone who prefers a simpler look.

There are some really exciting ideas for gifts in this book.

Decorative Painting is published by New Holland Publishers (U.K.) Ltd. and is available at a retail price of R109.95. – Sue Holloway